weeping also, said,--“Dearest aunt, how unspeakably I love you!” The Lady Minnatrost, however, soon resumed her composure. “If thou indeed lovest me so dearly,” said she, in a kind though solemn tone, “this must be proved by thy care, that for the future we may live together. I must now make a long journey, even as far as to that old watch-tower in Sweden, which has afforded you so much pleasure when it appeared in the mirror. It is true, that I travel more quickly than other mortals, yet the journey is long, the business important, and long must be our separation. In the meanwhile, then, live retired and peaceably, look not often through the windows, and, if thou wilt be guided by my counsels, walk seldom or never on the ramparts. During this time thy brother will not appear at the castle, for I have already informed him by a messenger that he must not come hither; yet thou shalt not want for pastime: the mirror will unfold its rarest and most varied scenery; the golden rings, the harps and cymbals, will delight you with their music; the lake reflect the pleasant moonshine, and the flowers give out their fragrance, even as if I were here present. But, dearest child, remember that thou should’st not with thine own hand withdraw the curtain from the mirror, attempt not to move the golden rings when they are still, and never touch the flowers. When thou hast need of aught, or hast formed any wish, then sing a ballad to thy lute, or play on it a few notes, and thy desires will be fulfilled. Have patience, dear child, be obedient and humble in spirit; then we shall live together, and all will turn out well.” With these words she kissed the astonished damsel, and in silence returned to her chamber. On the following morning Bertha sought all through the castle for the Lady Minnatrost, but in vain, for she was no where to be found. CHAPTER XV. How the Lady Bertha fled from the Druda’s castle.